Siaya County is set to host the fourth Luo Cultural Festival, a grand event aimed at uniting Luo-speaking communities across East Africa and beyond. The festival, themed “The Spirit of Luo Unity in Diversity,” will kick off on December 31, 2024, and culminate with the official opening of a new Olympic-standard stadium in Siaya town on January 2, 2025.
Festival Highlights
The event will bring together Luo-speaking communities from Uganda, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Sudan, Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the Kenyan counties of Homa Bay, Migori, Kisumu, and Siaya, as well as members of the diaspora.
Kisumu Deputy Governor Mathews Owili, chair of the festival’s organizing committee, urged community members to participate in celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Luo people.
A key feature of the festival will be a symposium at Got Ramogi, the historic dispersal point of Kenyan Luos. Professor Adams Oloo, a committee member, noted that this symposium would provide a platform for sharing and preserving the community’s traditions.
Rwot Okidi, representing Acholi elders from Uganda, expressed excitement about the event, confirming that delegations from Uganda and South Sudan would participate. He emphasized the importance of building stronger family ties among Luo-speaking groups.
Cultural and Sports Activities
The festival will showcase various cultural activities, including traditional dances, sports, and boat racing. The grand finale will feature a football match between Kenyan champions Gor Mahia FC and Tanzanian giants Yanga FC at the Siaya Stadium.
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga will officially open the festival, while President William Ruto is scheduled to officiate the closing ceremony and inaugurate the stadium on January 2, 2025.
Support and Sponsorship
The Cooperative Bank of Kenya has donated KSh 1 million to support the festival. Siaya Governor James Orengo, while receiving the donation, lauded the bank’s contribution and reiterated the festival’s importance in attracting visitors and promoting cultural unity.
The Governor also expressed optimism about the festival’s success, highlighting its potential to draw a significant number of participants and visitors from across the region.
Among the dignitaries present during a courtesy call to Governor Orengo’s office were Luo Council of Elders Chairman Ker Odungi Randa and other prominent figures.
Strengthening Unity and Heritage
The Luo Cultural Festival is expected to foster unity, celebrate diversity, and preserve the unique cultural heritage of the Luo-speaking communities in the region and beyond.
